09 Leone de Castris Five Roses (Salento, Italy)
We're pretending that it's been sunny and warm so far this spring, but if the cold weather continues, open this and dream a little. Actually, rosé is very adaptable to a number of foods from pasta to pizza to red or white meats, so feel free to pair this with just about anything. Fresh strawberry, melon, and a touch of citrus at the finish make this a bolder than average rosé, though not out of character for Salento, a very hot region in the southern "heel of the boot" in Italy. A blend using predominantly Negroamaro, one of the native grapes of the region. As mentioned above, this pairs with most everything, though it's a real knockout with risotto. We can get more of this, and would like to bring more in, so let us know right away if you like it.

04 Lavadores de Feitoria Tres Bagos (Douro, Portugal)
The beautiful red from Portugal comes from the same region that grows red wine which is made into Port. As you can imagine, therefore, the flavors are rich, dark, and bold. This opens with alluring dark berry notes, mixed with hints of flowers and just a touch of vanilla. The main body is full of vibrant plum and dark cherry, leading to a velvet-creamy finish with just a touch of chocolate and spice at the end. Pairs very well with grilled meats, and is especially versatile with sausages and different cheeses, if you are up for a simple, Portuguese-style meal. There's a bit more left on the shelf; we bought all the rest of this!

07 Vale do Bomfim Tinto (Douro, Portugal)
Another excellent and incredibly well priced red from Portugal, this one made by the famous Port House of Dow, run by the Symington Family. This family estate has produced world famous Ports and also fantastically complex and deeply-flavored red wines. A crisper style with a nice bite to the cherry, black plum, and berry flavors which mix effortlessly with a but of licorice and spice on the finish. Like the other red in this month's club, this goes with just about everything.